Nestled in the Cape winelands, Franschhoek was named after the French Huguenots who settled here at the end of the 17th Century. The Huguenots were French Protestants who fled from religious persecution after the revoking of the Edict of Nantes in 1685. At that time, the Dutch East India Company, wanting to strengthen the Cape settlement, announced that “French Huguenots, especially those having a knowledge in vine culture, vinegar and spirits making” would be more than welcome. After a long journey by boat, about 200 French Huguenots arrived in a valley surrounded by mountains called Drakenstein and Olifantshoek (the elephant corner). It was soon renamed Franschhoek (the French corner).

Franschhoek -The Gourmet Capital, surrounded by majestic mountains culminating in an awe-inspiring pass, provides added value to the food and wine experience. Franschoek is home to three of the country´s top ten restaurants, offering authentic French cuisine at its sophisticated best. Traditional South African cuisine, such as Waterblommetjie-bredie (a delicious dish made from water lily´s), potjiekos (usually made on open fire) and bobotie can be enjoyed at many of the fine restaurants found throughout the region. Maybe visit the Huguenot monument, which is constructed from granite and was inaugurated on the 250th anniversary of the Huguenots' arrival. The three arches simbolise the Holy Trinity. The woman in front holds a bible in her hand and the torn chain symbolises the liberation from religious oppression. In the Huguenot Memorial Museum next to the monument the history of the Huguenots is documented.